Maori Feather Korowai - Black Brown White and Jade

This beautiful Maori Feather Korowai features band of coloured feathers, in shades of Tan (striped feathers), Chocolate (with Jade tinge), and White. The total effect is magnificent.

The Maori feather cloak is made by a lovely Maori lady of Ngati Porou descent. She was shown the method of making the korowai by her mother, who was taught by a Northland kuia.

Please note that the correct Maori name for a feather cloak is kahu huruhuru, but many people, including Maori, still call it a korowai.

The top of the cloak is finished with a knitted taniko tape in colours of white, chocolate brown, and tan. The taniko design represents manaia and wairua. Te Manaia is a bird like figure that has supernatural powers and is a spiritual guardian. It has the head of a bird, body of a man, and the tail of a fish, representing the balance between water, earth and sky. 

The rest of the taniko is in a poutama (stairway to heaven) design. The poutama design symbolises a climb made by Tanenui-a-rangi, who climbed to the heavens to receive 3 baskets of knowledge and 2 stones or whatukura (of knowledge and mana) from the supreme being, Io. The series of steps denote the steps of progress and advancement through education. In the middle of the poutama design is a V meeting with another V. That represents our ancestral meeting house, the Wharenui. It symbolises the gathering and bringing together of all whanau, iwi, and cultures.

Feathers used start with stripey tan at the top, then Chocolate with Jade sheen, Tan striped, White, Tan striped, and so on. The inside of the korowai is lined with quality black fabric. The cloak is sewn on a sewing machine, making it affordable.

Dimensions (approx):

Width 40" (102cm)
Length 42" (107cm)

Wonderful to wear at a wedding, special function, 21st, graduation, or to present as a corporate gift, or to keep as a unique and beautiful piece of Maori art.

NB: We aim to keep it in stock, but if we sell out allow approximately 2 weeks for it to be made.

SPECIAL NOTE RE SHIPPING : If you are having this shipped internationally, please select Economy Courier or Express Courier only. The item is too valuable to ship by Airmail, which does not carry sufficient insurance.

Purchase the korowai on its own, or in a deluxe gift box with clear lid.  Perfect for special presentations. (Please note that the gift box photo is a representative one, showing a different korowai, but you will receive the korowai described above).  

Proudly Maori made in New Zealand and shipped worldwide.